10 Hour Trolling Adventure in Beaufort, NC
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
10-hour offshore trolling adventure targeting premium speciesCaptain Paul guides to Crystal Coast's top fishing spotsSmall group charter accommodates up to 4 guests maximum
Captain Paul knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some serious fish. This 10-hour trolling charter takes you way offshore where the big boys live - we're talking about waters where Mahi Mahi crash baits in spectacular fashion, Wahoo scream line off your reel, and Blackfin Tuna put up the kind of fight that makes your arms burn. You'll fish the Crystal Coast's most productive grounds with a captain who's been working these waters for years, and trust me, he knows exactly where to find the action. We keep groups small at just 4 anglers max, so everyone gets plenty of rod time and personal attention from the crew.
Your day starts early - real early - because the best fishing happens when most folks are still hitting the snooze button. We'll head out from Beaufort's docks and make the run to the blue water, where the Gulf Stream brings in the pelagic species that make offshore fishing so addictive. The boat's rigged with top-shelf trolling gear, and Captain Paul runs a clean operation with everything you need to land trophy fish. You'll spend your day covering serious ground, working different depths and following the bait schools that attract our target species. The Crystal Coast offers some of North Carolina's most consistent offshore fishing, and on a 10-hour trip, we've got time to really work the water and put you on multiple species. Pack sunscreen, bring a cooler for your catch, and get ready for a day that'll have you planning your next trip before you even hit the dock.
We fish the way offshore fishing should be done - with a spread of lures that covers different depths and speeds to target whatever's biting. Captain Paul runs a variety of trolling lures including skirted ballyhoo, cedar plugs, and diving plugs that work the water column from top to bottom. The boat's outfitted with quality Penn and Shimano reels spooled with fresh line, and we keep our drag systems smooth and ready for long runs. We'll adjust our trolling speed based on conditions and what we're seeing on the fish finder - sometimes the Mahi want a slower presentation, while Wahoo prefer lures moving at higher speeds. When we mark bait or structure, we'll work those areas thoroughly, and if the bite's hot, we might even stop to throw some live bait or jigs. The Gulf Stream edge is our playground, and we'll follow the temperature breaks and current lines where predators ambush their prey.
Mahi Mahi are the crowd favorites out here, and for good reason - these fish are pure excitement from the hookup to the boat. Also called Common Dolphinfish, Mahi typically range from 10 to 30 pounds in our waters, though bull Mahi can push 40 pounds or more. They're most active from late spring through early fall, and they love to travel in schools around floating debris, weed lines, and current breaks. What makes Mahi so special is their aerial acrobatics - these fish will jump, dive, and put on a show that gets everyone on the boat cheering. They're also fantastic table fare with firm, white meat that's perfect for grilling or making fish tacos.
Wahoo are the speed demons of the offshore world, and when one hits your lure, you'll know it instantly. These torpedo-shaped predators can reach 50+ mph and routinely strip 100 yards of line on their initial run. Wahoo in our area typically range from 20 to 60 pounds, and they're known for their razor-sharp teeth and lightning-fast strikes. Peak Wahoo season runs from late summer through winter, and they're often caught while targeting other species. The meat is excellent - lean, white, and perfect for the grill. Just be ready for a fight when you hook one, because they don't give up easily.
Blackfin Tuna might be the smallest of our target species, but they punch way above their weight class. These 15 to 30-pound fish are pure muscle and endurance, making long, steady runs that test your stamina and drag system. Blackfins are present year-round in our waters but peak during cooler months when bait concentrations are highest. They school heavily and often feed aggressively, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. Their dark red meat is prized by sushi lovers, and they're considered some of the best eating fish in the ocean.
This isn't your typical half-day fishing trip - 10 hours on the water gives you a real shot at multiple species and the kind of fishing stories you'll be telling for years. Captain Paul's reputation speaks for itself, and his knowledge of these waters combined with quality gear and a well-maintained boat makes this one of the top-rated charters on the Crystal Coast. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add some North Carolina species to your list or someone wanting to experience world-class offshore fishing for the first time, this trip delivers the goods. The small group size means you get personalized attention, and the long day on the water maximizes your chances of hitting different fishing zones and conditions. Book now and get ready to see why Beaufort's offshore fishing scene keeps anglers coming back season after season.
Hit the offshore waters of Beaufort aboard this solid 2004 Wellcraft center console that got a complete makeover in 2016. Twin 250HP Yamaha engines push this 32-footer to a cruising speed of 34 knots, getting you out to the trolling grounds fast so you can maximize your fishing time. The boat comfortably handles up to 4 anglers with plenty of room to move around when the fish are biting. Captain Paul relies on the onboard GPS and fish finder to locate productive water, while the radar keeps you safe if weather rolls in during those long 10-hour trips. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over structure without spooking the fish. When you're chasing Mahi, Tuna, and Wahoo in the blue water off the Crystal Coast, you want a boat that can handle the conditions and get you there comfortably – this Wellcraft delivers on both fronts.
Thunnus AtlanticusBlackfin tuna are the perfect size gamefish - typically 15-25 pounds with that classic tuna body and fight. They school up in warmer months along the shelf edge and around structure in 100-300 feet of water. What sets them apart is their incredible stamina and willingness to eat. They'll hit trolled baits, but vertical jigging and chunking really shine for these fish. The meat is top-notch - darker than yellowfin but rich and flavorful. They're fierce fighters that'll test your drag system with long, powerful runs. Peak season runs late spring through fall when water temps hit the upper 60s. These fish have sharp eyesight, so scaling down your tackle helps - try #30 fluorocarbon leaders and 5/0 circle hooks. Pro tip: when you find one blackfin, stick around and chunk with pilchards - they usually travel in schools and you can often get multiple hookups.
Coryphaena HippurusThese bright golden fish with electric blue and green backs put on quite a show when you hook one. They're absolutely stunning in the water, but watch them change colors like a light display once landed. Most run 15-29 pounds and about three feet long, though we've seen bigger. Look for them around floating debris, weed lines, and current breaks in warmer months. They're surface dwellers that love chasing flying fish, so keep your baits skipping on top. What makes them special is the incredible fight they put up - they'll jump, run, and really test your drag. Plus, the meat is fantastic eating with that mild, sweet flavor. Pro tip: when you see frigate birds working floating sargassum, get your lines in fast - that's where the mahi are.
Acanthocybium SolandriThe wahoo is pure speed - we're talking 50+ mph when they hit your trolled bait. These silver bullets with blue tiger stripes typically run 3-5 feet and pack serious power. They cruise open water around the continental shelf, usually in the top 60 feet. Summer through fall is prime time here off Beaufort when the water's warm. What makes them special is that blistering initial run that'll make your reel scream, plus they're outstanding table fare - firm, white, and delicate. We catch most while high-speed trolling at 12-15 knots with wire leaders because those razor teeth will cut right through mono. The fight is different from other fish - less jumping, more sustained power and speed. Local trick: when trolling for wahoo, vary your speeds occasionally. Sometimes that speed change triggers a strike when straight trolling won't.
Beaufort, NC